Airbus and Dreamliner Battle for Air Space

The talk of the commercial aviation world has been dominated for years by the sales conflict between Boeing's 787 Dreamliner and Airbus's A380. Now both planes are finally airborne—the A380 flying for airlines, the 787 in test flights. Here's how the airplanes match up in the global marketplace.

Airbus A380

The world's largest passenger plane has proven to be the most expensive civilian airplane ever developed. Airbus claims its fuel efficiency, control system and sound-reduction technology also make it the most advanced airliner ever built. The first-class section sets standards in luxury, but the A380 began service during a global recession. "They're going to see years of losses before that [luxury] market fully materializes," says investment consultant Paul Nisbet, president of JSA Research. Some carriers deferred airplane deliveries, while Qantas ripped out its first-class A380 cabins for ones with cheaper seats.

Boeing 787 Dreamliner

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The Dreamliner travels the same distance as the A380 at the same speed but carries half the passengers. The airliner's $10 billion development suffered from more than two years of delays, costing the company orders and credibility. Regardless, the versatility of Boeing's airplane has interested a steady stream of buyers. The Dreamliner's small size, quick flight-turnaround times and fuel economy account for its sales advantage over the A380. With a maiden flight under its belt in December 2009 and a crucial wing test passed in March, Boeing could deliver its first 787 by the end of this year.